Research Specialist
University of Michigan
How to Apply
To apply for this job, please upload (combined into ONE PDF) a CV/resume, cover letter, and the names/contact information for 3 professional references. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline the skills and experience that directly relate to this position. All inquiries about the position should be emailed to Dr. Angela Fong ([email protected] ) with the subject line "Research Specialist Position Inquiry".
Job Summary
Dr. Angela Fong, PhD, director of the Exercise and Health Behavior in Oncology Laboratory in the School of Kinesiology, is seeking a full-time Research Specialist to join her dynamic research team. This position is integral to supporting community-based efforts in behavioral research projects aimed at improving health outcomes in cancer survivors.
Why Work at Michigan?
In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:
- Generous time off
- A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate vesting
- Many choices for comprehensive health insurance
- Life insurance
- Long-term disability coverage
- Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses
- Maternity and parental leave
- University commitment to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities
Responsibilities*
(EF) = Essential Function
Community-Based Research Coordination (50%)
- Establish and maintain strong, productive relationships with community partners. (EF)
- Oversee and conduct community-based efforts, including organizing and leading a research-specific Community Advisory Board, facilitating community events, and managing other community engagement activities. (EF)
Community-Based Research Administration (25%)
- Coordinate participant recruitment efforts, ensuring diverse and representative enrollment in research studies. (EF)
- Develop and maintain detailed project timelines and tracking systems to ensure alignment with research objectives and deliverables. (EF)
Administrative and Organizational Management (25%)
- Provide administrative oversight for community-based research initiatives, including supervising the preparation and dissemination of study materials and documentation.
- Collaborate closely with research and community partners to ensure seamless integration and communication throughout the project lifecycle.
- Assist in the preparation of grant applications, reports, and other research-related documents.
- Maintain strict adherence to research protocols, ethical guidelines, and regulatory requirements.
- Performs other related duties as assigned by Dr. Fong.
Required Qualifications*
- Bachelor's degree in a related field such as kinesiology, public health, behavioral science, or social work.
- A minimum of 2-3 years of experience in community-based research or public health initiatives.
- Proven ability to work independently, demonstrate excellent organizational skills, and exhibit strong problem-solving abilities.
- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse communities.
- Ability to work collaboratively and contribute to a positive workplace culture aligned with the school's core values.
Desired Qualifications*
- Master's degree in a health-related field with at least 2 years of experience in community-based research or public health initiatives.
- Experience in oncology research or working with cancer-affected populations.
- Demonstrated experience fostering partnerships with community organizations.
- Familiarity with community-based participatory research methods.
Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.
Additional Information
The position is available immediately and is term-limited, funded for 24 months; the initial appointment may be extended depending on performance and availability of research funds. The salary range is $47,000 - $55,000, commensurate with education and experience, and eligibility to participate in the school's 2026 merit program. An offer may be extended outside the general salary range shared in this posting based on equity, experience, knowledge, and skills for this role. You are encouraged to discuss salary questions to honor understanding and transparency throughout the recruiting process.
This is an onsite position, with the potential to transition to hybrid/remote work after initial familiarization with lab procedures, space, and equipment. Candidates interested in hybrid/remote work should indicate this to the hiring manager during the recruiting process.
Background Screening
The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third-party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks will be performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.